Light-induced behaviour

Tue 24th Jul, 2012

Pulses of blue light are able to activate brain cells and control specific behaviors in rhesus monkeys, according to work published online on July 26 in Current Biology. 

A team of researchers, led by Dr. Wim Vanduffel from the Massachusetts General Hospital, USA, used a technique called optogenetics, where light-sensitive genes are inserted into cells. Researchers used optogenetics together with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to modify and track a group of neurons responsible for particular eye movements. 

"We are the first to show that optogenetics can alter the behavior of monkeys," says Dr. Vanduffel. And this new finding promises a new era in therapeutics.

"This opens the door to use of optogenetics at a large scale in primate research and to start developing optogenetic-based therapies for humans."

DOI: 

10.1016/j.cub.2012.07.023

 


Newly Discovered Crab Species Named After Schleswig-Holstein Premier Daniel Günther

A newly identified species of cave-dwelling crab discovered in Laos has been officially named in honor of Daniel Günther, the Minister President of Schleswig-Holstein. This announcement was made by...

Genetically Modified Pig Liver Operates Successfully in Human Patient for 38 Days

A groundbreaking medical procedure has demonstrated that a genetically engineered pig liver can function effectively within a human body for an extended period. In a recent case, a liver modified...

Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Captured by Mars-Orbiting Spacecraft

Recent observations from spacecraft orbiting Mars have provided rare images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it passed through the solar system. The European Space Agency (ESA) has confirmed that...

Nobel Prize in Medicine Awarded for Breakthroughs in Immune System Research

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for 2025 has been awarded to a trio of researchers--Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimun Sakaguchi--for their significant contributions to the...

Newly Discovered Comets Brighten October Skies

Stargazers are in for a treat this October, as several newly discovered comets are set to grace the night sky, assuming the weather cooperates.The first comet, designated C/2025 R2 (SWAN), is...

The Innate Mathematical Abilities of the Human Brain

The human brain is naturally equipped for mathematical reasoning, as evidenced by our innate ability to understand numbers, count, and estimate. This foundational capability is crucial not only for...

More Quick Read Articles »
German PKV Insurance

German Private Health Insurance

Health Insurance in Germany is compulsory and sometimes complicated, not to mention expensive. As an expat, you are required to navigate this landscape within weeks of arriving, so check our FAQ on PKV. For our guide on resources and access to agents who can give you a competitive quote, try our PKV Cost comparison tool.

Hospitals

Hospital and Clinic Directory

Germany is famous for its medical expertise and extensive number of hospitals and clinics. See this comprehensive directory of hospitals and clinics across the country, complete with links to their websites, addresses, contact info, and specializations/services.

Events

Upcoming Events

8MM Live: Ryder The Eagle

Date: 12 Nov | Location: Berlin, 8MM BarRyder The Eagle returns to 8MM Bar in Berlin for a unique live performance. Doors open at 19:00, with the show starting at 20:30. Known as a DIY hero, fallen Romeo, and karaoke enthusiast, the Mexico-based French singer-songwriter brings an art-rock flair,...